At Pathways to Potential, we are already jumping headfirst into the holiday season! If you would like to create a new and meaningful holiday tradition with your child, we have some ideas for you. These traditions not only foster a sense of belonging but also include wonderful sensory-friendly activities and literacy opportunities. Let’s dive into engaging ideas that will promote festive joy and important skills!
Tradition 1: Literacy Skill Advent Calendar
Activity Overview:
Each day in December, your child will open a new holiday-themed book leading up to Christmas. This not only builds anticipation but also enhances literacy skills.
Materials Needed:
- 24 holiday-themed books (including both festive stories and books that teach relevant skills)
- A large box or hanging organizer to display the books
- Wrapping paper or labels for each day
Instructions:
1. Gather a collection of books that reflect a mix of holiday themes and skills—this could include classics like "The Polar Express," sensory books like "Frosty the Snowman" with textures, or educational books that teach counting or colors through holiday imagery. These do not need to be books that are newly purchased!
2. Label each book with its corresponding date, wrap them in holiday paper, and fill your box or organizer with the books.
3. Each day, allow your child to pick a book, unwrap it, read it together, and discuss the story, encouraging them to express their thoughts.
4. Create a cozy reading corner with blankets and soft lighting to enhance the experience.
Skills Developed:
- Reading comprehension and listening skills
- Vocabulary building
- Expressive language skills through discussions about the stories or receptive identification of items throughout the book
Tradition 2: Sensory-Friendly Baking Day
Activity Overview:
Baking is a delightful and sensory-rich activity that allows your child to engage their five senses while creating delicious treats.
Materials Needed:
- Your child’s favorite holiday baking recipe (e.g., cookies or gingerbread)
- Ingredients (flour, sugar, eggs, etc.)
- Mixing bowls, measuring cups, and cookie cutters
- Edible decorations (sprinkles, icing)
- Aprons
Instructions:
1. Choose a recipe together and gather all the ingredients, explaining each step clearly. If visual steps are helpful for your child, take pictures of each step ahead of time, print them and glue next to the words.
2. Encourage your child to measure and mix ingredients while you guide them through the process. You can assist with visual, verbal or partial physical prompts as is needed for your child. Consider creating a sensory bin with flour or sprinkles for them to explore different textures.
3. Use cookie cutters to create festive shapes and allow your child to decorate the baked treats with colorful icing and sprinkles.
4. Enjoy the goodies together as a family, perhaps with a holiday movie!
Skills Developed:
- Fine motor skills through mixing and decorating
- Following multi-step directions
- Sensory exploration through textures and tastes
Tradition 3: Festive Family Art Night
Activity Overview:
Get creative with a family art night that allows your child to express themselves while engaging in sensory-friendly art projects.
Materials Needed:
- Non-toxic paints or markers
- Large sheets of paper or canvas
- Holiday-themed stencils and stamps
- Glitter, glue, and other decorative materials
- A designated crafting area
Instructions:
1. Set up a crafting station and encourage your child to choose holiday-themed stencils, stamps, or paints.
2. Create your art projects together. Sometimes it is helpful for you to model each step for your child before they complete it, but if they would rather have independence, you can let their imagination soar.
3. Play some holiday music in the background to enhance the festive atmosphere.
4. Display the finished artwork around your home or send the cards to family members.
Skills Developed:
- Creative expression and imagination
- Fine motor skills through painting and using tools
- Social skills through shared activity
Tradition 4: Holiday Scavenger Hunt
Activity Overview:
Create a sensory scavenger hunt that encourages your child to explore the holiday decorations around your home or neighborhood.
Materials Needed:
- A list of holiday items to find (e.g., ornaments, lights, snowflakes)
- A camera or smartphone for documenting findings
- Baskets or bags to collect small treasures
Instructions:
1. Prepare a simple scavenger list with images of common holiday items. For sensory exploration, you can add textures like a snowflake, a smooth ornament, or a jingle bell.
2. Set a time to explore your home or neighborhood, allowing your child to check off items as they find them or take pictures.
3. After the hunt, celebrate by sharing stories about what they found and having a snack together!
Skills Developed:
- Observation and matching skills
- Social interaction and teamwork
- Gross motor skills through movement and exploration
By building joyful holiday traditions with your child, you’re not only building lasting memories but also supporting your child in developing essential skills through engaging, sensory-friendly activities. The joy of reading, crafting, baking, and exploring with family will strengthen bonds and create a rich tapestry of experiences enjoyed together. Embrace the spirit of the season, and happy holiday traditions to you and your family!
Comments